Pokhara to Australian Camp Hike, Via Kande & Dhampus
1 Days
Lakeside/Lakeside
Spring (April-May) and Autumn (October-November)
Private Car/Jeep
Pokhara to Australia Camp via Kande and Dhampus is one of the famous one-day hike routes from the beautiful city of lakes, Pokhara. The trek from Pokhara to Australian Camp and Dhampus via Kande is a brief but worthy trip.
This circuit is perfect for time-limited travelers because it lets you experience the Annapurna region's splendour without requiring a lengthy trekking schedule. This trek is full of amazing views and enlightening experiences, starting at the trailhead in Kande and ending at the tranquil Dhampus Village and Phedi.
Kande, a hillside village, is a popular starting point for trekkers heading into the Annapurna foothills. A steady uphill trail leads to the Australian Base Camp, an open ridge with panoramic views, popular for sunrise watchers and day trekkers.
The trail heads towards Dhampus, a picturesque Gurung village known for its mountain hospitality and traditional lifestyles. The descent towards Phedi offers a well-rounded hiking experience, showcasing natural and cultural treasures through quiet woodlands and stone steps.
This route offers a balanced blend of natural beauty and cultural engagement in Nepal, suitable for both experienced trekkers and first-time visitors. It features snow-capped peaks, serene walks through rhododendron forests, and picturesque Gurung villages.
Activities | Distance | Duration | Time |
Lakeside to Kande | 15 km | 40 min | 6:30 AM – 7:10 AM |
Kande to Australian Camp | 4 km | 2 hours | 7:15 AM – 9:15 AM |
Australian Camp to Dhampus | 2 km | 1 hour | 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM |
Dhampus to Phedi | 3 km | 1.5 hours | 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM |
Phedi to Lakeside | 17 km | 45 min | 1:45 PM – 2:30 PM |
From Pokhara Lakeside, start your day early. It's a 40-minute drive to the trailhead at Kande. This section provides picturesque views of rolling hills and rural life. Take advantage of this drive to take pictures of the shifting scenery, savor the fresh morning air, and mentally prepare for the upcoming trek.
Start your two-hour walk uphill from Kande. The path winds through stone staircases and rhododendron forests. Beautiful panoramic views of the Himalayas appear as you ascend. At 1,900 meters above sea level, Australian Camp provides a perfect place to relax while taking in the stunning surroundings.
After arriving at Australian Camp, spend some time relaxing, drinking water, and admiring the expansive mountain vistas. You can relax while watching the clouds pass by the peaks, and have breakfast available according to season, such as bread, egg, tea, coffee, noodle soup, and others, at the neighbourhood teahouse.
From the camp, a relatively easy one-hour hike takes you to Dhampus, a picturesque village surrounded by terraced fields and traditional Gurung homes. Enjoy a hearty lunch at one of the teahouses and soak in the local culture.
Take your time to enjoy authentic Gurung cuisine and explore the village. Visit traditional homes, interact with locals, or admire the colorful prayer flags fluttering in the breeze.
After lunch, continue descending via stone steps and trails through a lush forest. The walk to Phedi, which takes about 1.5 hours, offers peaceful surroundings and a taste of rural life.
After arriving in Phedi, take a moment to unwind before returning to Pokhara. Checking your belongings, getting a drink, or buying some regional fare or mementos from the local vendors are all worthwhile during this time.
At Phedi, hire a taxi or jeep for a 45-minute drive back to Pokhara. You’ll reach Lakeside by early afternoon, just in time to relax by Fewa Lake or enjoy a lakeside meal.
In the 1970s, Australian trekkers established a camping spot near Pokhara, known as 'Australian Camp', due to its stunning sunrise views and accessible location. The area was referred to informally as 'Australian Camp' by locals, who noticed frequent visits and encampments by Australians.
As more travelers sought short treks near Pokhara, the name stuck, leading to the appearance of lodges and teahouses. Despite its name, the camp has no historical affiliation with any Australian organization.
Today, it is one of the most popular short hiking destinations in Nepal, attracting trekkers of all nationalities due to its serene setting, magnificent views, and ease of access.
On your one-day tour of the Dhampus Australian Base Camp Hiking from Pokhara, you may not need to pack much. You must carry these items:
Trip to the beautiful Australian Base Camp passing Dhumpus, full of cultural encounters, and Kande is always a pleasant journey. No matter the time of the year, this adventure will always offer you exciting thrills with lush beauty.
15 km from Pokhara to Dhampus Village offers an authentic cultural experience deeply rooted in the heritage of the Gurung people, who form the majority of the local population. Known for their warm hospitality and rich traditions, the Gurung community in Dhampus, Nepal, invites travelers to engage with their way of life. Visitors can witness age-old customs, listen to folk songs, observe traditional dance performances, and even participate in seasonal festivals and cultural events.
One of the best ways to immerse yourself in this cultural journey is through a homestay in Dhampus Village. By staying with a local Gurung family, trekkers can enjoy homemade meals, traditional architecture, and daily interactions that offer insight into Gurung customs, attire, and their close-knit community values. This enriching experience adds a human connection to the natural beauty of the Dhampus hike from Pokhara, making it one of the most memorable parts of the journey. Dhampus is a major checkpoint of the Mardi Himal Trek.
Note: Customized Australian Base Camp Nepal tour packages are also available for solo travelers, families, or groups with special interests such as photography, spirituality, or adventure.
Apart from the activities you do in this one-day tour, there are lots of fun things you can do in Pokhara. Following are some of them:
If you are willing to spend more time in Pokhara, then these are the foods that you must try out.
Hi Nepal Travel and Trek Pvt. Ltd is a reputable name in Himalayan travel with decades of experience. We take pride in providing outstanding trekking and tour experiences that are distinguished by careful preparation, operations that prioritise safety, and interactions that enhance culture. Our team is made up of committed support personnel and highly qualified, licensed guides who are all enthusiastic about showcasing Nepal's breathtaking scenery and rich cultural legacy.
You can modify your Dhampus Australian Camp hike according to your preference and time limitation.
The Australian Camp Hike via Kande and Dhampus is an ideal short trek near Pokhara, offering stunning mountain views, cultural encounters in Gurung villages, and peaceful forest trails all in a single day. Perfect for travelers with limited time, this easy and scenic route delivers a rewarding Himalayan experience. Whether you complete it in a day or extend it over multiple days, the journey is refreshing, memorable, and a must-do while in Pokhara.
Kande is about a 40-minute drive from Pokhara Lakeside. You can reach Kande by local bus, private taxi, or jeep, which depart regularly from Pokhara.
Kande sits at approximately 1,600 meters (5,250 feet) above sea level, making it a comfortable starting point for trekking into the Annapurna foothills.
From Pokhara, drive to Kande, then start a steady uphill trek through rhododendron forests for about 2 hours to reach Australian Base Camp. The trail is well-marked and popular among day trekkers.
Australian Base Camp is located at approximately 1,900 meters (6,230 feet) above sea level.
Australian Base Camp is mostly considered a popular day hike from Pokhara. However, you can link it with multiple trekking route.
Dhampus is famous for its authentic Gurung culture, traditional village lifestyle, terraced fields, and breathtaking views of the Annapurna mountain range. It’s a great place to experience local hospitality and cuisine.
Dhampus Village is situated at around 1,650 meters (5,410 feet) above sea level.
One of the shortest and most rewarding hikes from Pokhara is the Australian Camp one-day hike via Kande and Dhampus. It offers stunning mountain views, cultural experiences, and forest trails all within a manageable day trip.
Aug 2025 • Solo
I first used Mohan's services back in 2022. I then returned to Nepal the following year in 23 and most recently this year I spent June-August in Pokhara. Mohan is a very jovial, friendly laid back fellow and first time we met we had an instant connection. He's mostly helped me with transport to and from Pokhara & Kathmandu, but also most recently I used one of his fine jeeps to take me to Muktinath. Also his drivers are very experienced lovely people so the journeys have been great!.
His prices are very competitive, and he's given me some nice discounts over the years so I'm grateful for that. Also whenever I've had to change my plans last minute he's been extremely flexible in accommodating my needs. I consider Mohan a friend and will continue to use his services in my future travels to Nepal.
I'd highly recommend anyone to use Mohan, whether it be for trekking or taxi services, he's well established & connected and always has a can do attitude with a smile.
Cheers Mohan 👋 😊
Apr 2025 • Couples
Great experience. Mohan helped us organise a great 7-day trek, helped also with transport to Pokhara and always answered our questions. The communication was very good and clear. Our trek was fully organised, our guide really friendly and we enjoyed every minute of it. The price was also good.
Aug 2025 • Solo
Outstanding service across multiple offerings! I initially contacted for a solo trek, which was the highlight of my trip. Hi Nepal demonstrated prompt dropoff/pickup, excellent trek guide tailored to my needs, and overall just a great experience. All with only 12 hours notice!
After some travel issues I experienced with my airplane, Hi Nepal also worked with me on a taxi all the way to Kathmandu which removed the anxiety from my situation entirely. I was picked up promptly at the time I requested, and the company stayed in contact with me to ensure all went perfectly.
10/10 - will be using them again for my next trip in Nepal!